Three personnel of the Traffic Enforcement Agency of Mandaue (Team) have been dismissed following the circulation of viral videos and evidence allegedly showing them engaging in extortion with motorists in Mandaue City.
Investigation launched after viral videos
The agency initiated an investigation after videos surfaced on social media depicting traffic enforcers negotiating and accepting money from violators in exchange for not issuing citations, according to Hyll Retuya.
Retuya emphasized that there is zero tolerance for corruption within the agency. He added that Team has taken action against personnel involved in illegal activities this month to send a strong message to employees and other local government units.
Glaring evidence
Retuya stated that the evidence included dashcam footage, photographs, and audio recordings of the transactions. In one case, two personnel were caught negotiating and receiving money from a motorist.
In another incident, an enforcer was heard demanding money and warning that penalties at the office would be higher if the violator refused to pay on the spot. Retuya said the enforcer was clearly heard in the audio demanding an amount in exchange for not issuing violations.
Exaggerated penalties
The amounts involved were P1,500 in one incident and P1,000 in another. Retuya noted that one enforcer exaggerated penalties to pressure the motorist into paying immediately instead of following official procedures.
He told the violator that the office would be strict and impose bigger penalties and seminars. However, Retuya clarified that the violation was not even impoundable and the required seminar only lasts for one hour.
Admission of guilt
The three personnel were summoned to the office and given due process through legal proceedings. All three admitted to their actions after being confronted with the evidence, as their faces and actions were clearly seen in the videos.
Two of the dismissed personnel had been with the agency for several years, while one had been in service for only three months. Retuya emphasized that the agency does not act on accusations without proof because some violators retaliate against enforcers.
Anti-corruption drive
Retuya said strong evidence always prompts action from the agency. Complaints backed by proof undergo thorough investigation and due process to assure the public that the office is serious in addressing these activities.
The anti-corruption drive is in line with the administration of Thadeo Jovito “Jonkie” Ouano. Retuya said the dismissal serves as a warning to other personnel that illegal acts will not be tolerated in the Mandaue City Government.
